Associates Electronic Media

Applying and Frequently Asked Questions

So you've seen the videos, you've read the overviews and looked at potential future careers; now you're thinking, "This sounds awesome, but I still have all these unanswered questions. Like how do I apply? What's it like to be an EM student? What extracurricular things will I be doing?" Read on to find the answers.

How do I become an EM student?

Admission to the Electronic Media Program may be gained through the completion of the standard University Admission Process, in addition to the following:

You will get an EM faculty advisor who will answer your questions and guide you on what courses you need to take.

Do I need a computer?

The Electronic Media Department is a $1.7 million facility with the most up-to-date equipment used in the industry. The Carter Creativity Center features 18 iMacs and is open to all EM students enrolled in courses taught in the lab during the current semester (see lab hours/rules). You are certainly welcome to work on your projects at home. There are many discounts available to OUS students for Gateway, IBM/Lenovo, and Apple/Mac computers. For more information on how to purchase a computer or software, go to the Computer Lab (located in the Dingus Technology Center).

What kind of equipment/supplies do I need?

You are assigned file storage space on the EM server for temporary storage of class project files.

As the EM server is only intended for temporary storage, you still need to backup files on your own external hard drive, jump drive, CD, or other device. It is recommended that you backup your work daily. Files saved on the desktop or on the scratch disk will be deleted.

You will need blank CDs (CD-R) for turning in class project files. CDs can be purchased at the TASC Lab (located in the Dingus Technology Center).

Multimedia students: a digital camera (4-5 MP or higher) is recommended, but not required.

Audio/Video students: You will need blank DVDs (DVD-R). Your own personal set of headphones is also required for advanced video classes.

Lab hours/when will I have access to the technology/equipment?

Only students enrolled in courses taught in the lab during the current semester have permission to use the lab (all others must see Don Moore). Additionally, during open lab hours, each workstation is open only on a first-come, first-serve basis. Open lab hours are posted every semester.

What kind of classes Will I Be Taking?

In addition to General Requirements (required of all students), you must complete an EM core of classes. These Technical Requirements are the same for all EM students. Depending on specialization (Audio, Video, Multimedia), follow the Sequence Requirements. A list of EM course offerings can be found here. For a complete list of majors, classes, and descriptions, go to the OU Online Catalogue.

Video? Audio? Multimedia? How soon do I have to decide on a specialization?

If you haven't already made up your mind, you don't have to decide right away. The introductory-level classes (required of all EM students) are designed to let you get a feel for what electronic media has to offer. With these classes under your belt, you can begin to take advantage of the extracurricular production opportunities available for students to gain hands-on experience in the field. You'll find your niche before you know it.

What types of projects will I be working on?

Multimedia Production:

Animation

Computer Graphics

Graphics for Video

Movie Posters

CD/DVD cover jackets

CD/DVD Authoring

Presentations/Projector Files

Interactive Flash Websites/Games

Video Production:

News features

Documentaries

Commercials

On-Air promotions

On-Camera Performance

Live sporting events and concerts

Video postcards

Long form entertainment programming

Non-broadcast promotional videos

Live community and special events

Music Videos

Audio Production:

Commercials

On-Air promotions

Live sporting events and concerts

News writing and production

Sound mixing

On-Air performance

What's this I hear about extracurricular productions? How do I get involved?

Throughout the year, there are many opportunities for EM students to gain hands-on experience in extracurricular productions in and out of the studio. These include on-location sports production, parades, press conferences, non-broadcast video for hospitals and various organizations, etc. Sign-up sheets and information will be posted on the Bulletin Board on in the Electronic Media Department as well as the EM Home Page.

Is there a club/organization for students interested in Electronic Media?

Yes. The EM club was started in the spring of 2004. It is made up of students interested in video, audio, and multimedia production. The purpose of the organization is to create a common assembly for students interested in electronic media production where they can learn, develop skills, and express their ideas. They are involved in many extracurricular productions and plan various student-related activities throughout the year.